The Alesis Nitro Mesh electronic drum kit has quickly become a popular choice for both beginners and intermediate drummers. Its blend of affordability, realistic feel, and surprisingly robust features makes it a strong contender in the entry-level to mid-range market. This comprehensive review delves into its strengths and weaknesses, helping you decide if the Alesis Nitro Mesh is the right kit for you.
What Makes the Alesis Nitro Mesh Stand Out?
The Nitro Mesh's most significant selling point is its mesh heads. Unlike rubber pads found in cheaper kits, mesh heads offer a much more natural and responsive playing experience. This translates to a more comfortable and quieter practice session, mimicking the feel of acoustic drums more closely. This improved feel is crucial for developing proper technique and avoiding the common frustrations associated with less responsive pads.
Beyond the mesh heads, the Nitro Mesh boasts a surprisingly complete feature set. It includes a wide range of sounds, built-in practice tools, and the ability to connect to a computer for even more creative possibilities. Let's explore these features in more detail.
What are the key features of the Alesis Nitro Mesh?
The Alesis Nitro Mesh boasts several key features that contribute to its popularity:
- 8" Dual-Zone Mesh Snare: Allows for rim shots and snare sounds, enhancing the realism and versatility.
- 8" Mesh Toms: Providing a consistent and quiet playing experience compared to rubber pads.
- 3-Zone 10" Ride Cymbal: Offers bow, edge, and bell sounds for a more nuanced cymbal performance.
- 10" Crash Cymbal with Choke Functionality: Adds another layer of realism and expressiveness.
- Built-in Sounds & Modules: The Nitro Mesh comes with a comprehensive sound library covering various genres.
- Connectivity: The module allows for connection to headphones, computers, and other audio devices.
- Practice Features: Includes metronome, recording, and play-along functions to aid in learning and development.
Is the Alesis Nitro Mesh good for beginners?
Yes, the Alesis Nitro Mesh is an excellent choice for beginners. The mesh heads contribute to developing proper technique, and the various practice features make it a great learning tool. The intuitive interface of the module also makes navigating the sounds and settings straightforward, even for those new to electronic drums. The price point makes it accessible without sacrificing quality, allowing aspiring drummers to invest in a solid foundation.
How does the Alesis Nitro Mesh compare to other electronic drum kits in its price range?
Compared to other electronic drum kits within a similar price range, the Alesis Nitro Mesh stands out with its mesh heads. Many competitors at this price point still rely on rubber pads, which can negatively impact the playing experience. This is a significant advantage, making it a superior option for those prioritizing realistic feel. While other kits may offer slightly different sound libraries or additional features, the Nitro Mesh’s combination of mesh heads and a comprehensive feature set makes it a strong contender.
Is the Alesis Nitro Mesh quiet enough for apartment living?
While the mesh heads significantly reduce noise compared to rubber pads, the Alesis Nitro Mesh is not completely silent. The sound levels will still depend on the playing dynamics and the surface beneath the drum kit. Using a drum mat can further minimize noise transmission, making it more suitable for apartment living. However, it's advisable to be mindful of your neighbours and practice at reasonable volumes, especially during late hours.
What are some of the drawbacks of the Alesis Nitro Mesh?
While the Alesis Nitro Mesh offers many positive attributes, some minor drawbacks exist. The included hi-hat is a simpler single-zone model lacking the versatility of a multi-zone hi-hat. Additionally, the build quality, while adequate for the price point, may not feel as robust as higher-end kits. However, for most beginners and intermediate drummers, these drawbacks are unlikely to significantly detract from the overall positive experience.
Conclusion
The Alesis Nitro Mesh electronic drum kit presents an exceptional value proposition. Its mesh heads, comprehensive feature set, and accessibility make it an ideal choice for both aspiring and intermediate drummers. While some minor drawbacks exist, the benefits significantly outweigh them, positioning the Nitro Mesh as a top contender in its price range and a worthy investment for anyone looking to explore the world of electronic drumming.
